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News Article

New National Space Transportation Policy Approved

WASHINGTON, Nov. 21, 2013  The President of the United States signed the National Space Transportation Policy Nov. 21, 2013, to ensure continued assured access to space for national security and civil payloads.

The NSTP gives the Air Force the opportunity to work with other U.S. government departments, agencies, services and industry partners to ensure the availability of domestic space transportation capabilities that are reliable, efficient, affordable, innovative and competitive in support of the nation’s national security needs.

“The Air Force looks forward to engaging with other services, departments, agencies and industry partners to further the goals and objectives in this policy and maintain our leadership among space-faring nations," said Acting Secretary of the Air Force Eric Fanning.

This will allow the Air Force to maintain access to the full range of orbits needed to meet the national security interests in an affordable and competitive manner.

"Our space transportation capabilities are vital to our national security,” Fanning said. “This policy's vision and direction will help maintain assured access to space into the future.”